OVG360 Names Gregory A. O’Dell President, Venue Management

Venue management and hospitality company OVG360 named Gregory A. O’Dell president, venue management. OVG360 – a division of global sports and entertainment company Oak View Group – will welcome O’Dell to his new role in April after he departs his position at the helm of Events DC, the official convention and sports authority for the District of Columbia. He’ll report directly to OVG360 CEO Chris Granger.

O’Dell, who brings over 25 years of experience to the role, will lead the venue management line of business within OVG360, overseeing venue operations for more than 230 properties across the globe, including stadiums, arenas, convention centers, performing arts centers, cultural institutions and state fairgrounds.

“Greg is truly a unicorn in the live events industry in that his immense leadership experience spans both sports and entertainment and conventions and meetings,” Granger said in a release. “Bringing on Greg as our new head of venue management aligns with our commitment to hiring and developing the most talented, innovative, and values-driven people to grow the OVG360 team.”

In his current role as president and CEO of Events DC, O’Dell oversees three lines of business: conventions and meetings, sports and entertainment and special events. His primary responsibilities include oversight of the creation and promotion of hospitality, athletic, entertainment and cultural activities that generate economic and community benefits for the residents and businesses of the District of Columbia.

He also manages Events DC’s development portfolio, with active projects that include a new multi-purpose entertainment and sports arena on the campus of St. Elizabeths East in Congress Heights, the redevelopment of the RFK Stadium/Armory campus, a comprehensive streetscaping project around the 9-block exterior of the Convention Center and the redevelopment of the Carnegie Library, inclusive of a primary tenant lease for Apple’s global flagship store.

Prior to Events DC, O’Dell served as chief executive officer and general manager of the Washington Convention Center Authority, where he was responsible for the operations of the 2.3-million-square-foot Convention Center.  He also spearheaded the Authority’s development efforts, leading negotiations with the selected private developer and providing oversight throughout the project lifecycle of a $520 million public-private partnership for the 1,175-room, 37-suite Marriott Marquis Washington, DC hotel.

“I could not be more excited to join the OVG360 team. Under Chris’ leadership, we have a bold vision for how we will deliver customized venue solutions to our clients, creating indelible experiences for the communities we serve,” O’Dell said in a release. “I am so fortunate as this role is the perfect fit – a culmination of my experience in sports and entertainment, hospitality and development, coupled with my passion for growth, through building culture and embracing innovation.”

O’Dell’s appointment follows OVG’s acquisition of Spectra, one of the industry’s leading venue management and hospitality providers, to create a leading full-service live events company.

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